Who is at Risk for Compassion Fatigue?

Anybody who cares for others that are dealing with trauma is subject to compassion fatigue.

Some examples include health care professionals, caregivers of those with special needs, pastors, chaplains, and humanitarian workers, social workers, first responders and long-term care professionals.

What Are the Dangers of Compassion Fatigue?

Compassion fatigue, also known as secondary trauma, can be harmful to our quality of life in many ways. The onset can happen suddenly and is often mistaken for burnout.

Compassion fatigue can lead to interpersonal problems such as difficulties getting along with others and problems with intimacy, lead to disturbances and the ability to think clearly, feel effective, and maintain hope, lead to physical ailments such as headaches, nausea, and vomiting, chronic pain, and chronic fatigue.

High levels of cortisol, which is our primary stress hormone, can increase susceptibility to illness. Prolonged secondary trauma can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and gastrointestinal conditions.

It can lead to psychiatric conditions, such as mood disorders, hypochondria, depression and anxiety, personality disorders, and PTSD.

These disorders can also lead to addiction including drinking, drugs, gambling, smoking, and eating disorders.

What Should I do if I am Struggling with Compassion Fatigue?

If you think you may be struggling with compassion fatigue, it is important to remember we have to be healthy to do our best work in such a way that is sustainable and enriching over time.

Dealing with Compassion Fatigue

If you are dealing with compassion fatigue, here are some things you can do:

• Going to therapy
• Seeking support from peers
• Practicing gratitude
• Begin an exercise routine
• Stay kind to yourself
• Seek inpatient treatment

We must practice what we preach and ensure that our own restorative self-care is a top priority in order to prevent compassion fatigue.